Waves and Wave Interactions

Front

What type of waves do not require a medium to travel?

Back

Electromagnetic waves are waves that can travel through a vacuum, such as light waves.

Front

What is refraction?

Back

Refraction is the bending of light as it passes from one medium to another, such as from air to water.

Front

What happens when light hits a shiny or smooth surface?

Back

It is reflected. Reflection occurs when light bounces off a surface.

Front

What is reflection?

Back

Reflection is the bouncing back of light when it hits a surface.

Front

What is absorption in terms of light?

Back

Absorption is when light is taken in by a material and not reflected or transmitted.

Front

What is the difference between reflection and refraction?

Back

Reflection is the bouncing of light off a surface, while refraction is the bending of light as it passes through different media.

Front

What are mechanical waves?

Back

Mechanical waves require a medium (solid, liquid, or gas) to travel through, such as sound waves.

Front

What is an example of a wave that requires a medium?

Back

Sound waves are an example of mechanical waves that require a medium to travel.

Front

What is the law of reflection?

Back

The law of reflection states that the angle of incidence is equal to the angle of reflection.

Front

What is an example of refraction in everyday life?

Back

A straw appearing bent when placed in a glass of water is an example of refraction.